Pineda diagnosed with partial UCL tear, Tommy John recommended

The New York Yankees' postseason hopes were dealt a blow Friday as general manager Brian Cashman announced starter Michael Pineda has been diagnosed with a partial tear in the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, according to MLB.com's Bryan Hoch.

Pineda is seeking a second opinion, though Cashman admits Tommy John surgery is recommended.

It's unclear when Pineda suffered the injury, although the 28-year-old was shelled in his most recent start, lasting just three innings against the Toronto Blue Jays and allowing five earned runs on nine hits (three home runs).

"We always thought there was more there, and I still think there is - despite the injury that he's got," Cashman said. "I do think we've benefited a great deal (from) having him as a member of the rotation since we acquired him."

The right-hander, who will become a free agent this winter, is 8-4 this season with a 4.39 ERA in 17 starts.